Salvation Army scoops homeless cash

A project which helps homeless and vulnerable people in Eastbourne has been given a £700 boost to its coffers.

The Salvation Army in Langney Road runs Rebourne Centre which is a drop in centre for homeless and vulnerable people where they can access a range of services, computers and a small cafe.

The citadel was recently presented with a cheque from residents who decorated their homes with Christmas lights over the festive period and collected money for the Salvation Army.

Pauline Peagam, the Salvation Army’s community development manager in Eastbourne, was handed the cheque by the residents recently.

It was the second time the residents got together to put on the fundraising display at their homes in Uckfield.

Pauline said, “Jacky and Martin Ensom and Bob, Jean and Rory Bishop from Uckfield once again this Christmas placed lights around their houses from December 2012 to January 2013 and donations were asked to be placed in a tin to raise money for The Salvation Army’s Rebourne Corner.

“They had a fantastic response and £700 was raised.”

Pauline said she was very grateful for the cash boost for the centre.

“The money is always very much needed, especially in the current economic climate which is now affecting many more people and would be put to good use across our services,” she said.

“It is with the support of people like Jacky, Martin, Bob, Jean, Rory and all the community that gave donations that we are able to offer the very much needed services in the centre and continue supporting the daily needs of the homeless and vulnerable. Thank you to all those who continue to support us.”

The Salvation Army in Eastbourne also provides hot meals for people living on the streets and in temporary accommodation as well as taking part in a rota for the town’s night shelter and distributing sandwiches and hot drinks.